FINANCING YOUR UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION
Federal and State Sources of Aid
- Complete the 2021-2022 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using your 2019 federal tax return.
- Muhlenberg College’s school code is 003304. This will serve as the needs analysis and will determine eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant, PHEAA PA State Grant, and Federal Student Loans. Additional help with FAFSA questions can be found here.
- Provide additional information if requested. Some students are selected by the federal government for a process called “Verification”. If your FAFSA indicates that you have been selected for Verification, you may be required to submit additional information.
Grants
Eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant and Pennsylvania State Grant is estimated according to the information provided on the FAFSA. Grants are based on financial need and do not have to be repaid. Grants are subject to revision during the year, based upon enrollment changes and academic progress.
Loans
Federal Direct Loans are available to students who have completed the FAFSA and are enrolled at least half-time, or two classes. Interest rates for the student loan program are announced each July 1st. The Subsidized Loan is need-based; the interest is paid by the government while the student in enrolled at least half-time. The Unsubsidized Loan is not need-based; interest begins accruing after disbursement, but can be paid while in school. Interest and principal payments on Direct Loans may be deferred while the student is enrolled at least half-time.
The following loan amounts are available to independent undergraduate students:
| Level | Subsidized | Unsubsidized | Total |
|---|
| 1st Year |
$3,500 |
$6,000 |
$9,500 |
| 2nd Year |
$4,500 |
$6,000 |
$10,500 |
| 3rd Year |
$5,500 |
$7,000 |
$12,500
|
| 4th Year |
$5,500 |
$7,000 |
$12,500 |
The aggregate loan limit for undergraduate students is $57,500; no more than $23,000 of this amount may be in Subsidized Loan.
Scholarships
- Constance Lewis Miller Scholarship - Applicants must be female degree candidates; widowed, divorced, or single; and not of traditional college age. Eligible students may apply using the Continuing Studies Application for Financial Aid.
- Dr. Samuel Laposata Scholarship - This scholarship was established to benefit matriculated students who have completed a minimum of four courses and are in good academic standing. Students must qualify for financial aid under standard granting procedures.
- Community Service Scholarship - Applicants must be engaged in meaningful community service via employment/volunteerism with a local community-based/non-profit organization. Recipients are chosen by the Community Service Scholarship Committee and receive a tuition scholarship equal to five courses per academic year.
Outside Scholarships can be found here.
Scholarship Search Online
Other Resources
- Employer Provided Assistance
Many area companies have tuition reimbursement plans for their employees. Contact your employer’s human resources department for details. We provide tuition payment deferment for students who are using employer benefits.
- Military Education Benefits
Veterans who want to apply for benefits under the current G.I. Bill should discuss their eligibility and application process with a Continuing Studies Advisor.
Any outside scholarships, employer benefits, or other sources of financial aid should be reported to the Office of Financial Aid.
Summer Semester Financial Aid
Financial Aid is available for the summer semester for eligible students who are enrolled at least half-time and have completed the 2021-2022 FAFSA. Financial aid disbursements typically occur after July 1st.
Students can apply directly for the 2021 Summer PA State Grant provided enrollment is at least half-time and for a minimum of five (5) consecutive weeks. Visit www.pheaa.org/summergrant to apply online.